Moana(2016); Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.Photo: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures / courtesy Everett Collection, Getty Images
How far willMoanago? To live action!
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson— who famously voiced demigod Maui in the 2016 Disney animated film — announced the upcoming project on Monday during the company’s 2023 shareholder meeting.
“Deeply humbled to announce we’re bringing the beautiful story ofMOANA to the live action big screen!” Johnson, 50, wrote in the caption of his announcement on Instagram.
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Johnson went on, “We’re honored to partner with@DisneyStudiosto tell our story through the realm of music and dance, which at the core is who we are as Polynesian people.”
“Much more to come, but until then / What can I saaaaaay except … 🪝,” he concluded, quoting the lyrics to Maui’s signature song “You’re Welcome” and adding an emoji that was a clear nod to the character’s magical hook.
In his Instagram video, Johnson was shown on the beaches of Oahu, Hawaii, with his two younger daughters —Tiana, 5 this month, andJasmine, 7 — as he spoke about the culture and how it inspiredMoana, before revealing the big movie news.
“We are so excited and happy to announce that alive-action reimagining ofMoanais in the works,” the wrestler-turned-actor said, promising the return of the titular character plus “Gramma Tala, the music, the dance, Te Fiti, Pua the pig, the village” and “the beautiful, powerful ocean.”
Moana(2016).Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures / courtesy Everett Collection
“And one more, what’s that guy’s [name]?” he joked, snapping his fingers. “Oh! Yours truly, Heihei the chicken.”
“Just kidding — Heihei’s gonna be in it, but of course, Maui will be in it too,” Johnson said.
While they’re “still very early in the process” of bringing thestory to life in live action, with “more work to be done,” Johnson is dedicated to “kick(ing) this journey off right.”
Jasmine and Tia then proceeded to bring a life-size god-worthy hook over to their dad.
Afterdenying Johnson is Maui in real life, the girls changed their tune after he promised them ice cream: “Yes, you are!”
Dwayne Johnson with daughters Tiana and Jasmine.Dwayne Johnson/instagram
StarringAuli’i Cravalhoin the titular role, theMoanaanimated filmgrossed $643 million worldwidefollowing its November 2016 theatrical release.
Cravalho, 22, is also onboard as an executive producer, per the release, as is Bush, 48.
source: people.com
